Several opposing Arab political groups in Palestine today united in defending the Arab mayor of Jerusalem, Mustafa Bey Khalidi, for his anti-Jewish remarks at a conference of Arab mayors at which stronger measures against Jewish immigration and land acquisition were demanded of the Palestine Government.
The Arab National Defense Party, led by the Nashashibi family, today issued a manifesto “to the noble Arab people” calling upon all Arabs to unite “for the defense of our threatened homeland.” The manifesto contains a pledge by the Defense Party to make sacrifices and to act in accordance with decisions and the interests of the country.”
The Hebrew press today continues to support the attitude of the Jewish aldermen who demonstratively walked out of the Jerusalem municipal council in protest against the anti-Jewish remarks of the Arab mayor, and who have not returned since. The Hebrew newspaper Hatzofeh says that the Jews ought to learn a lesson from the conference of the Arab mayors. “These mayors, the paper points out,” were unanimous in their resolutions denouncing the Jews as enemies of the Arab people. None of them proposed any agreement with the Jews on the basis of a bi-national Arab-Jewish state. Whereas among us, even the extremists wish Arab-Jewish understanding, cooperation and friendship.”
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.